Lantern Fest

*articles may contain affiliate links* Tonight’s post is thanks to Lantern Fest, an event coming to Pittsburgh in May 2016. UPDATE! New date, due to weather, is June 4, 2016.

Two years ago, the Bigs and I got to witness one of the coolest closing events of a wedding ever, a sky filled with lanterns. They chose to light lanterns and release them into the sky because “historically, Chinese Lanterns have been used to symbolize good fortune, request favorable weather, and celebrate the lives of loved ones” (I got my information from the Lantern Fest, but same reasoning for our friends big day). The release was spectacular – we ooo’ed and aww’ed — watching several lanterns lift into the late evening sky.

Because it was so amazing, I was all the feels when I was asked if I’d heard of Lantern Fest and wanted to go to the Pittsburgh event (coming SOON!). Well, YES!

Our Friends Lighting Lanterns at their sister’s wedding

Because, seriously. Isn’t light just amazing? Don’t you remember that I cried when I found out my church lit lanterns on Christmas Eve and I wasn’t there? So you know I won’t be missing this event, right?

Alright. I’ve clearly convinced you that you should join us, right? Well, if not, here’s some more official information from a press release on March 22:

Photo Courtesy of Lantern Fest

Chinese Lanterns Illuminate the Sky: The Lantern Fest comes to Pennsylvania this spring

Last year thousands of lanterns illuminated the sky when more than 8,000 revelers gathered at the Poconos for the Lantern Fest. On May 14, the spectacle will travel west and make a stop in Pittsburgh. Event organizers expect thousands to join together at Lernerville Speedway to celebrate life and make memories.

“Pittsburgh is an exciting addition to our 2016 schedule,” says event director Spencer Humiston. “The event unifying and one of the most visually stunning things you have ever seen in your life. Pittsburgh will love it!”

When gates open at 4 p.m., families can settle in to roast s’mores, decorate their lanterns, and enjoy entertainment, including: a stage show, face painters, princesses, inflatables, and live music. After sunset, participants will come together to release their lanterns, painting the sky gold with their hopes and dreams.

“This event is unique because it appeals to people of all ages,” said Lantern Fest spokeswoman Amy Gessel. “It is not often that an event encourages participation from the youngest children to senior citizens and everyone in between. It means something different to each participant but can be enjoyed by all.”

A portion of event proceeds will be donated to Angels of America’s Fallen. This non-profit organization provides funds and supplies for mentoring children of fallen police, military and other first responders.

What to Know When You Go

Photo Courtesy of Lantern Fest

If you’re convinced and would like to attend Lantern Fest here are the details:

When: Saturday, June 4, 2016. You can start to grab your spot at 4:00 PM.

Tickets: You will need to buy Lantern Passes online. (Current pricing is $35 per pass — you’ll need one per adult / $5 for children ages 4-12 / FREE for 3 and under.) But keep reading for a discount code!

What’s Included: Each pass includes a lantern, marker, s’mores kit, and lighter. The Kid’s Pass will include entrance and a gift. The event will also include food, live music, princesses, face painting, and more. Lanterns will lift into the sky at sundown.

Where to find out more: Lantern Fest is on Facebook / More information (including other locations) is available on their website, thelanternfest.com.

Let it Glow

Photo Courtesy of the Lantern Fest

Hopefully you will grab a blanket and join my family and I at this beautiful event. I know we have some lives to celebrate, some memories to be made, and some requests for good weather to lift up. *wink* If you are able to, let me know…but also head over to thelanternfest.com/location/pittsburgh/ and use code lilburghers10 for 10% off.